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The structural elements in a building envelope are doing the job of carrying loads and resisting the many forces that come from the natural environment.

In a deep energy retrofit, it may be necessary to deal with the structure in order to add insulation, replace windows or to run ductwork for ventilation.

SAFETY NOTE: Any structural change to a building must be treated with caution. Always hire professional contractors to do this kind of work.

The main structural components and their functions are as follows:

• Foundations are the part of a building structure that acts as an anchor the ground and transfers loads from above down to the earth below. They may be constructed of stone, brick, solid concrete or concrete blocks or preserved wood.
• Floor systems are horizontal structures made of beams and floor joists. They carry the load of occupants, furniture, appliances and some of the weight of upper structure. Floor systems may be made of dimensional lumber, engineered wood, timber or logs and metal.
• Wall Systems are made of vertical studs, long horizontal 'plates' and beams that span the tops of openings. A wall may be load bearing or non-loadbearing, meaning that it may carry loads from floors and walls above. Wall systems may be made of dimensional lumber, engineered wood, timber or metal.
• Roof Systems are the uppermost structure in a building. They can be sloped or flat, and will transfer loads from snow, rain and wind to the walls, floors and foundation below. A roof can be framed with metal, timber, dimensional lumber and engineered trusses.